Diwali Fireworks Contribute to Deteriorating Air Quality in Pune
Pune, 2nd November 2024: The air quality in Pune and its suburbs has significantly worsened due to the extensive use of firecrackers during the Diwali celebrations. In certain areas, air quality has reached hazardous levels, posing serious health risks, particularly respiratory issues.
Air quality declines as the concentration of particulate matter in the atmosphere increases, influenced by factors such as fireworks and construction activities. Following Lakshmi Puja on Friday, the pollution levels soared, with the air quality index (AQI) surpassing 115 that night.
According to established air quality standards, an AQI of up to 50 is deemed safe, while readings between 51 and 100 are considered satisfactory, albeit potentially troublesome for sensitive individuals. An index ranging from 101 to 200 falls into the moderate category, where children and the elderly may experience breathing difficulties. Readings between 201 and 300 indicate poor air quality, adversely affecting the health of the general population, and any level above 300 is categorized as extremely unhealthy, capable of causing severe health problems.
The smoke generated from firecrackers after Lakshmi Pujan contributed significantly to the deteriorating air quality, and its effects lingered into Saturday. Data from the Central Pollution Control Board reveals alarming AQI levels across the city: 254 at Shivajinagar, 174 at Bhumkarnagar, 298 at Savitribai Phule Pune University, 209 at Karve Rasta, 281 at Hadapsar, 154 at Mhada Colony in Lohgaon, and 196 at Panchvati.
